AgileChange ManagementcoachingLeadershipLeanLean ManufacturingManufacturingpodcastProductivitySix Sigma

GA 557 | Meeting Customer Demand with Gary Cihak

Avatar photo By Jessica Bush Updated on May 3rd, 2026

This week’s guest is Gary Cihak. Ron and Gary discussed Gary’s Six Sigma Green Belt project, what he learned from it, how he dealt with the resistance that followed, and more. An MP3 audio version of this episode is available for download here.

In this episode you’ll learn: 

  • The quote that inspires Gary (3:21)
  • About Gary and his background (3:52)
  • How he was introduced to continuous improvement (4:29)
  • The problem Gary was trying to solve with his Six Sigma Green Belt project (5:07)
  • A project Ron worked on (8:23)
  • What Gary did and learned from his project (9:03)
  • The resistance he was met with (10:37)
  • Tactics he used with frontline workers (11:45)
  • Getting leadership buy-in (12:38)
  • Navigating the transition from batch production to one-piece flow (13:23)
  • What he learned about people (19:12)
  • Advice to those at the beginning of their lean journeys (20:05)

Podcast Resources

Get All the Latest News from Gemba Academy

Our newsletter is a great way to receive updates on new courses, blog posts, and more. Sign up here.

What Do You Think?

What did you do for your Six Sigma belt project?

Avatar photo

Jessica Bush

Jessica is responsible for the editorial aspects of Gemba Academy’s content, focusing on course materials, podcast production, social media, and other copywriting efforts. An avid advocate of entrepreneurship, Jessica has worked with two technology startups as co-founder and head marketing strategist. Jessica received her BS in Business Administration from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, with a minor in Music.

Have something to say?

Leave your comment and let's talk!

Gemba Academy School of Leadership

Recent Articles

Start your improvement training today.

Explore Courses Chat with an expert